If you’re looking for a fun, delicious, and effortless appetizer, look no further than the BBQ Cocktail Sausage Crock Pot recipe! This mouthwatering dish combines the rich flavors of barbecue with a hint of sweetness from apricot jam, creating a perfectly balanced sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ideal for gatherings, parties, or even a cozy night in, these cocktail sausages are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their ease of preparation allows you to focus on enjoying time with your guests rather than slaving away in the kitchen.

Using a crock pot means that these BBQ cocktail sausages are not only simple to prepare but also set to simmer and develop robust flavors while you go about your day. Cooked low and slow, the sausages absorb the delicious sauce, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, this dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs, so you can share it with friends and family without worry. Let’s dive into why this BBQ cocktail sausage recipe will be your new go-to for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Cocktail Sausage Crock Pot

Effortless Preparation: Simply mix the sauce, coat the sausages, and let the crock pot do all the work!
Customizable: Adjust the level of sweetness or add more heat to suit your taste preferences.
Perfect for Parties: These bite-sized sausages are easy to serve and even easier to eat, making them a hit at any gathering.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of barbecue sauce, apricot jam, and mustard creates a unique flavor profile that everyone loves.
Gluten-Free: A dish that caters to various dietary needs, allowing everyone to join in on the fun!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin whipping up your BBQ Cocktail Sausages, it’s important to prepare your kitchen to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Start by gathering your tools: a medium-sized mixing bowl for the sauce, a whisk for combining ingredients, and, of course, your trusty crock pot. Be sure to give your crock pot a good wash if it hasn’t been used in a while, as cleanliness is key in the kitchen.

Next, measure out your ingredients: 2 lbs of cocktail smoked sausages, 1 cup of barbecue sauce, 1 cup of apricot jam or preserves, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of black pepper. Having everything ready to go can prevent chaos as you cook, so take a moment to gather your supplies. If you plan to double the recipe for larger gatherings, make sure you have an appropriately-sized crock pot to accommodate the increase in ingredients.

Ingredients

2 lbs cocktail smoked sausages
1 cup barbecue sauce
1 cup apricot jam or preserves
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk the Sauce

Begin by adding the barbecue sauce, apricot jam, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper into a medium bowl. Using a whisk, blend the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, cohesive sauce. This sauce will be the star of the dish, so don’t rush it—ensure every ingredient is well combined for the best flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Sausages

Once your sauce is ready, it’s time to get those sausages in the crock pot. Open the package of cocktail smoked sausages and place them directly into the crock pot, arranging them as evenly as possible. This ensures they all receive the delightful sauce you’re about to pour over them.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

Now that your sausages are in place, pour the prepared sauce evenly over them. Use a spoon or spatula to gently stir the sausages, making sure they are well coated with that flavorful mixture. After everything is nicely coated, cover the crock pot with its lid. Set your crock pot to LOW and let the magic happen. Allow the sausages to cook for about 2 hours. If you can, give them a stir halfway through to help the sauce bubble and caramelize evenly.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cooking time has completed, your BBQ cocktail sausages will be hot, bubbly, and ready to serve. Use toothpicks for easy serving straight from the crock pot, or transfer them to a serving dish for a more formal presentation. Either way, you can expect them to vanish quickly!

Variations

Protein: Substitute the cocktail smoked sausages with chicken nuggets or veggie sausage for a different twist.
Vegetables: Add diced bell peppers or onions to the crock pot for added flavor and texture.
Spices: If you like some heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to check that the sausages are heated through before serving; they should be steaming hot.
This dish can easily be doubled for larger gatherings, but ensure your crock pot can handle the increase in volume.
For the best flavor, let the sausages soak in the sauce for the full cooking time; this allows them to absorb all the delicious flavors.
Make sure to stir occasionally for even heating and sauce distribution.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with toothpicks for easy serving, allowing guests to enjoy them without any fuss.
Consider offering a side of crispy tortilla chips or veggie sticks to accompany and balance out the sauce’s sweetness.

Tips

Using high-quality barbecue sauce will make a noticeable difference in the flavor, so choose one that you love.
For an even quicker prep time, prepare the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate, then simply add it to the sausages when you’re ready to cook.
To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
Reheat leftovers in the microwave, ensuring they are heated evenly throughout before serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 240 per serving
Protein: 16 grams
Sodium: 800 milligrams

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage and sauce separately and combine them when you’re ready to cook, or keep the final dish in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What type of sausages work best for this recipe?

Cocktail smoked sausages work best due to their flavor and size, but you can also use turkey or chicken sausages for a leaner alternative.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover BBQ cocktail sausages in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I know when the sausages are done cooking?

You’ll know they’re done when they’re heated through (steaming hot) and the sauce is bubbling. A thermometer inserted into the sausages should read 165°F.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the BBQ Cocktail Sausage Crock Pot recipe is a delicious and easy-to-prepare dish perfect for any gathering or celebration. With its mouthwatering flavors and effortless preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your appetizer rotation. Whether you’re heading to a party or celebrating a quiet evening at home, these cocktail sausages offer a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make this dish your own. We’d love to hear about your experiences—what twists did you add? Share your thoughts, tips, and ideas in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, consider sharing it with friends and family!